Greek Orzo Pasta Salad

Orzo Pasta Salad – This Greek pasta salad is so easy to throw together—loaded with fresh veggies and feta, it makes for a healthy and delicious meal, not to be missed! Dressed with olive oil, mustard, and lemon juice sends summer notes from the Mediterranean shores, this orzo pasta salad is like an invitation to travel after only a few minutes in the kitchen. Enjoy!

Photo credit: © Eatwell101.com

Ingredients list for the greek pasta salad

For the dressing:

• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey
• Sea salt and fresh cracked black pepper, to taste

For the Pasta Salad:

• 5 cups cooked orzo pasta
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1/2 eggplant, diced
• 2 cups cucumbers, de-seeded and coarsely chopped
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 1 cups diced tomatoes or halved cherry tomatoes
• 1 cup diced feta cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1/4 cup chives, chopped
• Sea salt and fresh cracked black pepper, to taste

Photo credit: © Eatwell101.com

Directions

1. To make the orzo pasta salad: In a medium mason jar combine the ingredients for the dressing, secure the lid tightly and shake vigorously until emulsified.  adjust seasoning with more lemon, honey, salt, or pepper as necessary.

2. Heat a skillet over medium-high with a bit of olive oil. Toss in zucchini and stir fry until slightly browned. Proceed the same way with eggplant. Set aside and allow to cool. Alternatively, you can cook them on the grill with a fine mesh grilling pan.

3. In a large bowl toss together orzo pasta, cucumber, bell pepper, tomatoes, feta cheese, zucchini, eggplant, and fresh basil.  Season lightly with salt and pepper. Chill in the refrigerator for one hour. Add the dressing just before serving, adjust seasoning if necessary and serve immediately.

Note: You can serve this orzo pasta salad either cold or warm, for a heartier lunch.